Construction site prank bringing danger to drivers

June 26, 2012 at 2:36 AM CDT - Updated June 27 at 9:10 AM

Amarillo, Texas - It's a practical joke that's gone too far.

Paul Braun with the Texas Department of Transportation explains, "The last couple of nights, we've noticed that someone has been moving our barricades and placing them on the frontage roads where we want traffic, and taking them away from the areas that are supposed to be blocked off."

It's putting drivers in danger, especially at night, because this section of U.S. 287 at Loop 335 is under major repair, as TxDOT works to replace a deteriorating bridge.

Braun says, "Whoever is doing this, not only is not funny, but it's also very dangerous and against the law."

In fact, you could face jail time for interfering with a traffic control device, a Class B misdemeanor, that's up to 6 months in jail and a fine up to $2,000.

Which is why TxDOT and local law enforcement are working to put a stop to this prank.

Sgt. Brent Barbee with the Amarillo Police Department says "Usually those types of concerns are taken care of through beat checks. In other words, the officers who work in that area will go by as often as possible to make sure none of the safety equipment or signage has been moved that could pose a danger to the public."

The site does have two sets of barriers, as well as a mound of materials, and heavy machinery blocking the missing bridge to help deter vehicles from the area.

TxDOT and police are also asking for your help, if you know who has been doing this or happen to witness someone doing this, you're asked to contact law enforcement immediately.